Dorothy Ann Powers

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Dorothy Ann Powers, 85, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator and friend.

For 63 wonderful years, she shared a beautiful marriage with her devoted husband, Jim, building a life centered on faith, love, hard work, laughter and family. She was a loving mother to her son, David and daughter, Barbara and a proud grandmother to three grandchildren: David, Emily and Reese, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

As an elementary school educator for 30 years, she touched the lives of countless children with her kindness, patience, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the power of education. She had a special passion for helping young readers discover the joy of learning. She retired from Napoleon Community Schools. She also worked at Michigan Bell Phone Company for a number of years. A life-long learner Dorothy proudly earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s from Eastern Michigan University.

Her heart was always happiest when she was surrounded by the people she loved. She treasured the simple pleasures of life on the family farm and by the pool. She also found great happiness in traveling to Florida, a place that brought her peace and joy, and she especially loved visiting Walt Disney World.

She will be remembered for her warm smile, strength, generous spirit, gentle guidance and endless devotion to her family. Her legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to others will live on in all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Jim and her two children, David (Angie) Powers and Barbara (Steve) Weller; three grandchildren, David, Emily (Kevin) and Reese; two sisters, Barbara Slaby and Debbie (Dave) Minkebige; brother-in-law, Richard (Sharon), sister-in-law, Evie and Betsy, special Godchild, Mary and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her brothers Paul and Tom Nastally, sister, Rita Maher and her parents, Paul and Emma Nastally. Brother-in-laws Henry Slaby, Ken Powers, Cliff Hanchett and sister-in law, Kay.

Mrs. Powers is at the Desnoyer Funeral Home where a prayer service will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 9:30 AM followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at St. John Catholic Cemetery. Father John Vinton will officiate at the Funeral Mass.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a Rosary service at 7:00 PM.